Close Readings Novel Approaches: ‘New Grub Street’ by George Gissing
Dec 29, 2025
Tom Crewe, a contributing editor at the London Review of Books and novelist focused on 1890s literary London, delves into George Gissing's 'New Grub Street.' He provides insights into Gissing's life, including his Yorkshire roots and struggles with finances and social class. The discussion highlights the novel's unflinching realism, the complexities of its characters like Reardon and Milvain, and how ambition clashes with harsh realities. Crewe eloquently describes it as 'invigorating gloom,' capturing the essence of a gritty literary landscape.
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Marketplace Trumps Genius
- New Grub Street depicts a literary world where commercial cleverness often beats real talent.
- Clare Bucknell highlights the novel's view of a ruthless marketplace replacing older camaraderie.
Gissing's Early Downfall
- Tom Crewe recounts Gissing's fall from promising student to convicted thief over an affair with Nell.
- He describes Gissing's month of hard labour in Bellevue Prison as a pivotal, traumatic moment.
America Kickstarts His Writing
- Tom Crewe explains Gissing's exile to America funded by college acquaintances.
- Gissing began writing stories there and effectively launched his literary career.